By Chris Nomjov
The consumption of a local gin, popularly known as ‘kai-kai’ or ‘ogogoro’ and dog meat, better known as ‘404’; that contained poisoned ethanol, has reportedly left 22 people killed and several others injured in Rivers State.
Reports suggest that the food and drinks were poisoned and has lead to deaths in Bonny Kingdom and Woji in Obio Akpor local government areas of the state.
Simon Wilcox, a Youth leader and Spokesman for Bonny kingdom confirmed the death of the people
“As I speak to you, 17 persons have been confirmed dead. We are going to the hospital to attend those who are lying critically ill. We need the help of World Health Organization, WHO, Federal and Government agencies to assist people of Bonny kingdom,” Wilcox said.
Also, early Thursday morning, it was alleged that at least five persons have been reported dead in Woji in Obio Akpor local government area after eating dog meat delicacy, popularly called ‘404’ allegedly prepared by one Friday Dickson, popularly called “Etiaba” from Akwa-Ibom state.
So far, there has not been any reaction from the Ministry of Health or the Rivers state government on the sudden deaths.
It would be recalled that in April 2015, a local gin also lead to the death of 20 people and others injured in Ondo state. The incident in Rivers state, if confirmed, will put the death toll of this recurring local gin nightmare at over 40, in less than two months.
